Sahuaros

Part of speech: noun

Definitions

1. A species of large, tree-like cacti native to the Sonoran Desert, notable for their towering height and distinctive arms extending upward
2. A tall cactus characterized by its branching structure and ability to survive in arid desert conditions, providing habitat for various wildlife
3. A prominent plant of the arid Southwestern United States, recognized for its majestic size and iconic silhouette against desert landscapes

Etymology: "Sahuaros" is the plural of "sahuaro," the tall columnar cactus of the Sonoran Desert, so the word's history is that of its singular form. The singular was borrowed into English from Spanish, where "saguaro" is the standard spelling; the variant "sahuaro" reflects an older or regional Spanish-influenced spelling that English writers adopted. Plural forms like this one are usually reached by adding "-s" to the singular, so "sahuaros" follows ordinary English practice.